The U.S. Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency American personnel and their families from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, citing a worsening security situation across Nigeria.
In an updated travel advisory issued Wednesday, the Department warned that Americans should reconsider travel to Nigeria starting April 8, 2026, due to escalating threats from crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.
The advisory categorises the country as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while 23 states are now designated “Level 4: Do Not Travel”, reflecting areas where danger is particularly high. Newly added Level 4 states include Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba.
According to the advisory, “Security operations to counter these threats may occur without warning.” Northern states like Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamawa face heightened risks from terrorism and armed crime, while central and northwestern states such as Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, and Zamfara are threatened by unrest and kidnapping.
In the south and southeast, residents are warned against travel to Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) due to violent crime, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The Department noted that violent robberies, carjackings, and kidnappings target Americans, who are often perceived as wealthy.
Terrorist attacks remain a persistent threat nationwide, with markets, hotels, places of worship, and public gatherings all considered potential targets.
Health care across Nigeria is described as limited and inconsistent, with facilities generally falling below U.S. and European standards.
The advisory urges Americans planning to travel to Nigeria to enroll in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP), exercise extreme caution, avoid protests and large gatherings, and establish personal safety and “proof of life” protocols.
This warning underscores growing concerns over Nigeria’s security climate, highlighting the challenges faced by both residents and foreign visitors in the country.
